The former England skipper recently returned to first-team action following a lengthy absence after injuring his knee against Liverpool in November, featuring in two of the Blues’ last three matches.

However, Benitez has revealed that the 32-year-old will not take part against Wigan this weekend after suffering another setback, though the interim boss insists the centre-back is not expected to face another long-term spell on the sidelines.

"John Terry has inflammation in his knee," Benitez told reporters. "It's not serious but he won't be available for tomorrow."

Demba Ba, meanwhile, has been given the all-clear to play after breaking his nose in the 3-2 loss to Newcastle last weekend.

The striker flew to Germany in midweek to be fitted with a special mask in order to play, but Benitez failed to confirm whether Fernando Torres or the Senegal international would be preferred in the starting line-up.

"He was training yesterday with the mask," Benitez added. "He is fine. We have to make a decision."